Welcome aboard this special 30-minute Express Escape presentation, where we take you into the icy heart of the polar regions—and beyond—with Oceanwide Expeditions, one of the world's most awarded and respected expedition cruise operators.

Joining me is Toto Vermue, USA & Canada Sales Manager for Oceanwide, to talk about:

✅ The fascinating history of this trailblazing company

✅ What sets Oceanwide apart in a competitive expedition market

✅ Their fleet of four small ships, purpose-built for exploration

✅ Where they go—from Antarctica to the Arctic and a few stops that might surprise you

✅ And a bucket-list voyage they offer only once a year: a journey to the remote islands of the South Atlantic, including Tristan da Cunha, St. Helena, and Ascension Island 🗺️

🧊💥 Farthest South: A New Record for Polar Exploration

In early 2025, Oceanwide Expeditions made headlines by setting a new record for the farthest south any vessel has ever navigated—a feat accomplished by their ship m/v Hondius. Braving thick pack ice and unpredictable conditions, the expedition reached an astonishing 78°44.4’S in the Ross Sea 🚢

This isn’t just history in the making—it’s proof that Oceanwide is setting the course for the future of expedition cruising.

🚢 The Fleet

Each Oceanwide vessel is designed for maximum adventure with minimal environmental impact. Their largest ship, m/v Hondius, launched in 2019, carries just over 170 guests and boasts the highest Polar Class rating available for passenger ships. That means you’ll go further into remote areas with more stability, safety, and comfort.

Smaller group sizes also mean more meaningful wildlife encounters, longer landings, and more flexible itineraries—perfect for travelers who want to go deeper, not just farther.

🌍 Once-a-Year Voyage: Tristan da Cunha & South Atlantic Islands

Oceanwide offers a true once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a rarely offered cruise that connects travelers with the most isolated islands on the planet. Imagine stepping ashore on Tristan da Cunha, the world’s most remote inhabited island; walking the windswept cliffs of St. Helena, where Napoleon was exiled; or exploring the uninhabited volcanic wilderness of Ascension Island. These itineraries are the stuff of explorer dreams—and they sell out fast.

🏆 Industry-Leading Recognition

Oceanwide Expeditions isn’t just another expedition company—they're a pioneer in polar travel, operating immersive wildlife and nature experiences that stay true to the spirit of real exploration. Their accolades speak for themselves:

🥇 World’s Leading Polar Expedition Operator — World Travel Awards: 2005 (Winner), 2009 (Winner), 2010 (Winner), 2011 (Winner), 2019 (Winner. In 2024, Oceanwide swept the Expedition Cruise Network Awards, winning: Best Expedition Cruise Operator – Polar Destinations, Best Expedition Cruise Operator – Sustainability, Best Medium Expedition Cruise Operator.

These aren’t just shiny trophies—they reflect Oceanwide’s deep dedication to sustainability, adventure, and small-ship excellence.

👀 WATCH NOW + PLAN YOUR ESCAPE

Whether you're dreaming of penguins and icebergs, auroras and Arctic foxes, or a journey where few ships ever go—this presentation is your first step into the world of Oceanwide Expeditions.